Aug. 20, 2002

Charleston, SC - The Citadel volleyball team begins a new season with new players and a new outlook. Head coach Wendy Anderson has high expectations for the young squad.

"With our new talent and size, this team should progress quickly," stated Anderson. "We have two starters with minor injuries, but are getting right back on track. The girls have really improved their basic skills just in the first few practices."

Colorado native, freshman Amber Davis has already proven to be an asset on the court. She is fighting for a starting position and working to improve her defensive game so that she will be an offensive and defensive threat.

"Davis is really working hard in the preseason," continued Anderson. "She has a great court sense and is focusing on her ball control so that she can play all the way around."

Another strong presence is the Bulldog's only senior, Nicole Mantu. She has recorded all hitting records for the team and will only improve this season.

"Mantu had a great spring season," Anderson proceeded. "She has real energy, strength and leadership, she always gets the job done."

With the addition of five freshmen, the Bulldogs have added strength, size and skill, all the things that will be the cornerstone in winning more games.

"Ball control is the key to our success," said Anderson. "We must get the ball to our setters because we have the arsenal to put the ball away."

The Bulldogs begin the regular season with a tri-match on August 31 at the University of Maryland-Eastern Shore. They return to Charleston for their first home match on September 3 against Georgia Southern.